Classics
Oliver Twist
An orphan born in a workhouse runs away to London and falls in with a gang of child pickpockets led by Fagin. Meanwhile, hints appear that his origins may be more important than anyone realises.
Facts last checked 2026-10-16
- First published
- 1838
- Pace
- Medium
- Length
- Long
- Pages
- 26
- Format
- Standalone
Read this if you want Dickens at his most dramatic, with vivid villains and a strong social conscience.
Skip this if you would struggle with its antisemitic stereotype of Fagin or with scenes of abuse.
The feel
Content warnings
Quick answers about Oliver Twist
- What is Oliver Twist about?
- An orphan born in a workhouse runs away to London and falls in with a gang of child pickpockets led by Fagin. Meanwhile, hints appear that his origins may be more important than anyone realises.
- Who should read Oliver Twist?
- Read it if you want Dickens at his most dramatic, with vivid villains and a strong social conscience. Skip it if you would struggle with its antisemitic stereotype of Fagin or with scenes of abuse.
- How long and how fast is Oliver Twist?
- It is a medium-paced, long read of about 26 pages, first published in 1838.
- Does Oliver Twist have content warnings?
- Content we flag: Child abuse, Violence, Death, Domestic violence, Prejudice.
- Can I borrow Oliver Twist for free?
- Often, yes. Check Libby (OverDrive) to see whether your library lends Oliver Twist; the borrow button above searches it for you.
- What should I read after Oliver Twist?
- Readers who liked it often move on to Great Expectations, Les Misérables, A Christmas Carol.
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Where to get it
| Store | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Borrow free | ||
| Libby / OverDrive | Free with a library card | Borrow free with Libby from Libby / OverDrive |
| Print, new | ||
| Amazon | Check price | Buy new from Amazon |
| Ebook | ||
| Kobo | Check price | Buy ebook from Kobo |
| Google Play Books | Check price | Buy ebook from Google Play Books |
| Audiobook | ||
| Audible | Check price | Buy audiobook from Audible |
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